Covington Advises Armani on UK Acquisition

Covington Advises Armani on UK Acquisition

10/4/2012

LONDON, October 4, 2012 — Covington & Burling advised the Giorgio Armani Group on the acquisition of its retail and wholesale business from long-term retail partner Club 21.

Under the terms of the deal, announced Tuesday, Armani has taken direct control of sales for its leading brands, which include Giorgio Armani, Emporio Armani, Armani Collezioni and Armani Jeans in the United Kingdom, Channel Islands, Republic of Ireland and Gibraltar. The transaction involved the acquisition of a significant premium real estate portfolio, including flagship stores on London’s Sloane Street, New Bond Street and Brompton Road.

The Armani Group is one of the world’s leading fashion and luxury lifestyle brands. It designs, manufactures, distributes and retails fashion and lifestyle products under a range of brand names.

The Covington team was led by Louise Nash and James Baillieu on corporate matters with assistance from Bethan Prince, and trainee solicitors Philippe Bradley and Christina Helden. Hilary Prescott led the real estate team, with assistance from Emilie Jones, and trainee solicitors James O’Shea and Sabeen Sheikh. The team also included Chris Bracebridge (employment), Guy Dingley (tax) and Morag Peberdy (intellectual property).